Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

Which dietary recommendation is important for a child recovering from appendicitis?

1. Low-fiber diet

2. High-fat diet

3. High-fiber diet

4. Enteral feeding only

The correct answer is: High-fiber diet

For a child recovering from appendicitis, a high-fiber diet is particularly important as it aids in the restoration of normal bowel function, which can be impaired after surgery. Increased fiber intake promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and helps maintain regular bowel movements. After surgery, the gastrointestinal system needs time to recover, and a high-fiber diet can facilitate this process. Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, support the healing process and contribute to the overall nutritional needs of the child. In contrast, options that suggest a low-fiber diet or a high-fat diet do not support the objective of promoting gastrointestinal health. A low-fiber diet may lead to constipation, which is counterproductive after appendicitis. Moreover, a high-fat diet can lead to digestive issues and is generally not recommended during recovery phases. Enteral feeding is unnecessary for most children after appendicitis unless they are unable to tolerate oral intake, making it less relevant than a high-fiber approach in this scenario.